Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Whatcom Community College (WCC) and Western Washington University (WWU) established a partnership to streamline the transfer process for students seeking a four-year degree. WCC students with a GPA of 2.5 or higher and an Associate's transfer degree will receive guaranteed admission to WWU, along with waived application fees.
Kroger recalled multiple food products due to potential listeria contamination and foreign materials. The affected items include smoked penne salad, basil pesto bowtie pasta, and certain corn dogs. Customers who purchased these products before October 2 are urged to return them for a refund.
The Seattle Mariners defeated the Detroit Tigers 3-2 to level their playoff series at one game each. Jorge Polanco's two home runs and Julio Rodriguez's tiebreaking double in the eighth inning secured the win at T-Mobile Park. The Mariners now head to Detroit for the next two games of the ALDS.
Skagit County Commissioners implemented a 90-day hiring freeze due to a $19 million deficit in the 2026 budget. They are exploring options such as layoffs and a new public safety sales tax to address the shortfall. Public comment on the preliminary budget will open on November 17th.
Silver Beach Elementary School in Bellingham has been identified as having the highest lead contamination levels in Washington state. Testing revealed lead levels over 800 times higher than safe limits, leading to the removal of one sink, while another's levels returned to safety. Bellingham Public Schools stated that contractors could not replicate the DOH's findings.
The Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) approved the $6.2 million purchase of the former Base Camp property in Bellingham for redevelopment. Plans include creating offices, tenant spaces, and a new bus station, with construction expected to begin in 2030. WTA aims to incorporate workforce and market-rate housing through collaboration with a private developer.
An Orcas Island resident, Jasmine Ikeda, was detained by the Israeli military while participating in an aid flotilla aimed at delivering humanitarian assistance to Gaza. The flotilla, which included over 500 participants, was intercepted on October 1, prompting U.S. Representative Rick Larsen to advocate for Ikeda's humane treatment and release.
The Mariners confirmed George Kirby and Luis Castillo as their starting pitchers for the first two playoff games against the Detroit Tigers this weekend. Coverage for Game 1 begins at 4:30 PM on KPUG, while the Seahawks prepare to host the Buccaneers on Sunday amid injury challenges.
A 41-year-old Lynden man was arrested for carrying a firearm on the property of Lynden High School. Staff reported that he appeared aggressive and smelled of alcohol, prompting police intervention. He is a registered sex offender, prohibiting him from legally owning a firearm.
The Trump administration cut over $1 billion in funding for energy projects in Washington, impacting 11 initiatives, including the Pacific Northwest Hydrogen Hub. Congresswoman Suzan DelBene criticized the decision as politically motivated, claiming it threatens jobs and raises utility costs for residents.